Tag Archive for: training

What is foam rolling and why should runners do it?

According to Wikipedia, foam rolling is: a lightweight, cylindrical tube of compressed foam. It may be used for many reasons, including increasing flexibility, reducing soreness, and eliminating muscle knots. Foam rolling is a method of self-myofascial release.  Studies show that the best results occur when the foam roller is used for 30 to 90 seconds on each muscle and combined with static stretching.  Rollers come in different sizes and degrees of firmness. The firmness (often identified by the color) can range from soft to firm, soft being best for beginners.

Runner is taking advantage of foam rolling and its benefits.

Top 4 reasons runners should foam roll.

Top 4 Reasons Runners Should Foam Roll

Increases Range of Motion and Relaxation

1.) Increase range of motion – It can help break the knots in our muscles, which restrict our range of motion. Foam rolling can help use our full range of motion. Range of motion is important for flexibility and performance. Regular use of foam rollers for myofascial release can alleviate muscle tightness, ensure optimal joint range of motion, and enhance overall movement.

2.) Increase feelings of relaxation – Part of the reason people love getting massages is because it helps them unwind and feel better. Foam rolling is like giving yourself a massage that takes only a few minutes each time but leaves you feeling much more relaxed.

Decreases Injury Risk and Recovery Time

3.) Decrease injury risk – It can help prevent common injuries. Tight muscles can be more prone to injury, so self-release of muscles and fascia can help loosen everything up and increase your overall performance.

4.) Decrease recovery time – Helps speed up recovery because it promotes better circulation of blood throughout the body. This helps in the natural healing process. No one wants to feel sore for long periods of time. Using a foam roller will help make the uncomfortable feeling go away faster so you can start training again with less soreness.

We at 3M Half Marathon prefer TriggerPoint foam rollers since it started in Austin, where this awesome race takes place. They were also a past partner of the race. There are now numerous creators of similar products you can explore and test out.

Grab one soon, if you don’t already own one, and get to foam rolling ASAP!

4 reasons runners should foam roll.

Infographic on benefits of foam rolling.

Increase strength and get leaner when you include cross-training this summer with Camp Gladiator

There are some days where it feels like summer is already here. That means the constant heat and humidity is right around the corner! Most runners reduce the number of long runs from their training because of these conditions. As we know (because we’re runners too!), runners want to consistently better. Add Camp Gladiator workouts to your running schedule and include cross-training to your summer workouts. The benefits will be numerous when fall arrives. Check out the following 8 reasons you should include their 4-week training cycles.

CG trainers cheer on runners at the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Expand your summer training with Camp Gladiator trainers!

Expand your summer training with Camp Gladiator trainers!

Don’t forget! The Camp Gladiator crew warmed you up before the 2019 3M Half Marathon and cheered for you as you charged to the finish line.

Camp Gladiator Benefits

  • 4-week training cycle provides variety and proper progression to keep your body able to do what you love
  • Increase and maintain strength in your upper body, lower body, and core
  • Full-body workouts make you a more well-rounded athlete
  • Improve posture and strength for your long races and those final miles
  • Train in ALL planes of motion, not just the repetitive linear motion (like swimming, biking, running)
  • Reduced chance of injury by training different muscles and foundational movement patterns
  • Build speed and endurance with the training volume and intensity provided at camp
  • Increased agility, balance, and coordination will help you move better and more efficiently

Visit Camp Gladiator to get started and find an Austin location near you! Not in Austin? Find a workout near you.

It’s no secret, 3M Half Marathon is better with friends

Much like happy hour and weekend brunch, 3M Half Marathon is always better with friends!

Friends hold you accountable during your 3M Half Marathon training. They support you at the end of long runs when you’re feeling sluggish. Often times they lighten the mood when you just don’t want to run, making the miles pass. And they’re always there to celebrate your accomplishments.

On race day, they cheer for you. They might pace you to your first half marathon. If they get ahead, they wait for you at the finish line. And they’re always the first to take a selfie with your new Downhill to Downtown medals and post it on social media.

You might have folks that do this for you. Just remember: this is a two-way street. What your buddies do for you, you do just as much for them in return. That’s why you should train for and run 3M Half Marathon with friends!